SMITHTOWN – On Wednesday, May 13, 2026, the Town of Smithtown Department of Public Safety, together with Town officials, held its Annual Public Safety Awards Ceremony at Town Hall. The event, held each year during National Police Week, recognizes the extraordinary service, bravery, and dedication of several members of the Town’s peace officers.
“Each year, this ceremony serves as a powerful reminder of the extraordinary men and women who wear this badge with honor,” said Chief Tom Lohmann, Director of Public Safety, in a statement. “I could not be prouder of this department and the selfless dedication, courage, and professionalism our officers demonstrate every single day. Their commitment to protecting this community represents the very best of public service, and it is truly an honor to recognize their achievements.”
The ceremony began with the promotion of Matthew Raia from Fire Marshal to Senior Fire Marshal. Raia was recognized for his dedicated service, leadership, and extensive experience in fire prevention and investigation efforts throughout the Town of Smithtown. Department leadership praised his professionalism and commitment to public safety, noting that his promotion reflects both his accomplishments within the department and his continued dedication to protecting the community.
“The Department of Public Safety is a shining example of what it truly means to protect and serve. We are incredibly fortunate to have some of the finest, most dedicated officers serving our community…individuals who willingly place themselves in harm’s way each day to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents,” said Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R-Kings Park) in a statement. “Today’s honorees exemplify courage, professionalism, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to serving the people of Smithtown. As we recognize their achievements and service, I extend my deepest gratitude to the entire department, as well as to their families, for their sacrifice, dedication, and steadfast commitment to this community.”
Award Recipients and Notable Acts of Service
Sergeant Brendan Dennihy received two separate Meritorious Service Awards for heroic and proactive law enforcement actions.
The first award recognized Sergeant Dennihy’s response to a residential structure fire in Kings Park on December 16, 2025. Upon arriving at the scene ahead of fire personnel, Sergeant Dennihy entered the smoke-filled residence with a fire extinguisher in an effort to suppress the rapidly-spreading kitchen fire. His swift actions helped contain the blaze and protect the residence until firefighters arrived.
The second Meritorious Service Award honored Sergeant Dennihy and Fire Marshal Kyle McCarthy for removing an illegally loaded firearm from the streets during a patrol operation near the Kings Park Hike and Bike Trail on April 4, 2026. Their actions led to the arrest of multiple suspects on serious weapons charges.
Leyland Crocilla was presented with the Meritorious Service Award for his lifesaving response during the historic January 2026 blizzard.
Responding in severe whiteout conditions to reports of two individuals who had fallen through the ice at Gibbs Pond Town Park, Ranger Crocilla arrived first on scene and helped rescue a father and son trapped in freezing waters. His swift response and calm actions under extreme conditions were instrumental in preventing a tragic outcome.
Department Recognition Award
The Department Recognition Award was presented to the members of the Old Northport Road Task Force for their extensive work addressing longstanding zoning, property maintenance, and quality-of-life issues along the industrial corridor. Honorees included Karen Sylvester, Brett Bailey, George Godberson, and Bryan Sinclair.
Working alongside the Town Attorney’s Office, Planning Department, and Building Department, the task force has issued 172 summonses since September 2024 in an ongoing effort to improve compliance, revitalize blighted properties, and protect the quality of life for Smithtown residents.
2026 Peace Officer of the Year
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the 2026 Peace Officer of the Year Award to Sergeant Brendan Dennihy. Chief Lohmann praised Sgt. Dennihy for his leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to public service.
“Sergeant Dennihy has distinguished himself over the course of the year and exemplifies the qualities associated with being a dedicated law enforcement professional… His steadfast commitment to the department made him the clear choice for this recognition.” – Chief Thomas Lohmann, Director of Public Safety
Chief Lohmann noted that Sergeant Dennihy’s nomination and approval for the award was unanimous among command staff and reflected the deep respect he has earned from his fellow officers and peers.
Throughout his career, Sergeant Brendan Dennihy has consistently demonstrated initiative, leadership, and dedication to training and mentoring younger officers while maintaining an exceptional record of enforcement and investigative work.
Councilman Tom Lohmann (R-Smithtown), Liaison to the Department of Public Safety, delivered heartfelt closing remarks, reflecting on the extraordinary character, courage, and unwavering commitment demonstrated by the men and women of the Department of Public Safety. He spoke about the integrity, professionalism, and pride each member brings to their duties every single day, noting that their actions speak volumes about the profound sense of service, honor, and bravery that defines the department. He praised the officers not only for protecting the community, but for embodying the very highest ideals of public service through their selflessness, dedication, and steadfast commitment to the residents of Smithtown.
“True peace officers are defined not only by their training and resilience, but by their integrity, compassion, and courage under pressure,” said Lohmann. “Every act of bravery and selflessness shown in the line of duty reflects the extraordinary character of those who answer the call to protect and serve. On behalf of the entire Smithtown community, thank you for standing watch with honor, strength, and an unwavering commitment to the people you serve.”
The Town of Smithtown extends its deepest gratitude to all members of the Department of Public Safety and congratulates this year’s honorees for their exceptional contributions to the safety and wellbeing of the community.
